25 February 2016

Malaysia to replace Philippines as AFF Suzuki Cup co-hosts?

Malaysia are among three nations in the running to assume control of the AFF Suzuki Cup hosting duties, after the Philippines Football Federation (PFF) withdrew as one of the hosts.

Malaysia co-hosted the AFF Suzuki Cup in 2012 and might potentially do it once more, after it was announced that PFF pulled out as a co-host of this year’s edition.

“The Philippines Football Federation had to withdraw as one the hosts for the AFF Suzuki Cup 2016 due to contractual problems,” the AFF said on their official website.

“The AFF would like to clarify that despite the PFF’s best efforts, the PFF were unable to deliver the contract with the stadium which was to host the prestigious tournament. The PFF were given two extensions to try to negotiate with the stadium to secure the contract.”

The 2016 Suzuki Cup is scheduled to be held from November 19 to December 17.

Myanmar will stage all Group A matches at the Thuwunnna Stadium and the Bogyoke Aung San Stadium, whereas Philippines were supposed to host all Group B matches at the Rizal Memorial Stadium and the Philippine Sports Stadium.

According to AFF general secretary Azzuddin Ahmad, the three countries in the running to join Myanmar as hosts are Singapore, Vietnam and Malaysia.

“At the moment, Malaysia, Singapore and Vietnam stated their interest to host the AFF Suzuki Cup and more will be revealed when we have our meeting on March 12,” he said.

Singapore co-hosted the 2014 Suzuki Cup with Vietnam while Malaysia and Thailand co-hosted the 2012 edition.